Living with constant back pain can wear you down. You may struggle to sit, walk, or sleep without discomfort. If other treatments have not helped, your doctor may talk with you about posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF) surgery.
PLIF surgery is a type of spine procedure used to stop painful movement in the lower back. It can also take pressure off nerves that cause leg pain, numbness, or weakness. For some people, it may be the next step toward getting back to daily life with less pain.
What Is PLIF?
PLIF surgery removes the damaged disc and replaces it with a bone graft or an implant, called a cage, between the vertebrae. Screws and rods are then inserted from the back of the spine to hold everything steady.
Over time, the bone graft helps the two vertebrae grow together into a single solid piece.
The surgery stops painful movement and gives nerves more space in the spine. This may help your back feel more stable.
For many people, PLIF represents the step that finally addresses pain at its root.
Will My Surgeon Recommend PLIF?
Your surgeon may consider PLIF if you have:
- Degenerative disc disease that has worn out the cushioning between vertebrae
- Spondylolisthesis, where one vertebra slips forward over another, causing instability and nerve pressure
- Spinal stenosis, a narrowing of the spinal canal that squeezes the nerves
- Disc herniation, where a disc keeps pressing on nerves
- Spinal instability from weakened or damaged joints in your lower back
All these conditions have one thing in common: the instability or pressure on nerves can’t be relieved without surgery. The goal of PLIF is to reduce pain, protect your spinal cord and nerves, and help you remain comfortable and active.
How is PLIF Performed?
PLIF is done under general anesthesia, where you’ll be completely asleep. The surgeon makes an incision in your lower back to reach the affected vertebrae.
Once the disc is removed, a bone graft is inserted to fill the empty space and support fusion. Screws and rods are carefully placed to secure the spine while the bone heals.
The surgery usually takes several hours. The exact time depends on how many levels need treatment and if the surgeon needs to give the nerves more room.
Your hospital stay after PLIF is typically a few days. You will be encouraged to start moving gently soon after surgery to prevent stiffness and improve circulation.
What is Recovery Like?
Fusion is a slow biological process. It often takes several months, and in many cases close to a year, before the bone is fully solid. During this time, you’ll need to avoid heavy lifting, twisting, or strenuous activities until your surgeon clears you. Physical therapy can help you slowly rebuild strength and flexibility. It also helps protect your healing spine.
To give yourself the best possible recovery, it is recommended that you:
- Exercise appropriately and regularly
- Avoid smoking
- Maintain good bone health
What are the Risks of PLIF?
Possible complications include:
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Blood clots
- Nerve injury leading to numbness or weakness
- Failure of the bones to fuse, called nonunion
- Problems with the hardware, such as loosening or breakage.
Follow-up visits help your surgeon track your healing. X-rays or CT scans can show if the bones are joining.
Some people may still have back pain after surgery. Your surgeon will review these risks and explain how they relate to your condition. Your results also depend on staying at a healthy weight, being active within safe limits, and following your rehab plan.
Most people notice significant relief of leg pain and better spinal stability after PLIF.
Is PLIF Surgery Right for You?
If back or leg pain is limiting your life, PLIF surgery may be one option to help improve stability and reduce nerve pressure. The right treatment depends on your symptoms, imaging results, and overall health.
Our spine specialists in the Atlanta area can review your symptoms and help you decide if PLIF surgery is right for you. We take time to answer your questions and explain each step of your care.
Schedule an appointment today to talk about your back or leg pain and learn which treatment may help you move with less discomfort.
